Bonsai Tattoo - from the wayback machine

[Jaberwky17]

More than 25 years ago, I was a young rock n roll punk who wanted a cool tattoo. I had an interest in bonsai but no hands on experience. I sketched this design, which incorporates the tree (juniper I think?) and the Japanese characters for rhythm and power.

I have recently started shopping for a good tattoo artist to help add more Japanese design to make a much larger piece, and she asked that I send her a photo of my arm tattoo. We are in the middle of a move and somehow I found this original sketch buried in the junk a few days ago. Amazing that after 25 years it still exists after being tucked in boxes and shuffled around all the places I've been.

The thing that I'm proud of is that even though I had ZERO knowledge of bonsai design at the time, the overall tree design stands up pretty well. If I had that tree I'd be happy. The pot design and color are poor, but hey - I was 18 years old! Fun stuff.

 

[Bonsai Nut]

25 years Pretty cool. Thanks for sharing!

 

[lordy]

Nice work. Did you end up in any of the visual arts as a means of earning a living or profession? Looks as though you may have been able to.
I'm still trying to figure out what I want to do when I grow up.

 

[Jaberwky17]

Sort of

I had visions of a career in art when I was younger but realized quickly that especially in my region (upper Red River valley on the ND/MN border) there simply aren't many choices for artists. Had I understood the viability of marketing/graphics/etc. I would have done that in school, but I decided to go with architectural drafting training, which segued directly into architecture school. So I do get to be creative, just not the same way.

The timing of this meant that I began to be trained in hand drafting, so I was able to see firsthand the full transition from hand drawing to CAD, and now from 2d CAD to 3d drafting, which I love.

 

[sikadelic]

I love tattoos and would love to get something bonsai related at some point. That looks like an awesome design and even cooler since you drew it yourself.

I got several tats, around 18 or so, within 2 years and none since. I still love them but the cost is so damn high when I have two little boys at home. One day I will finish up all the work I want. If you ever get it done I would love to see pics!!